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CSS Academy · Lesson

prefers-color-scheme Media Query

Detect the user's system dark or light mode preference using the prefers-color-scheme media query.

Why Auto Dark Mode?

Many users enable dark mode at the OS level for comfort, battery life (OLED screens), or accessibility. The prefers-color-scheme media query detects this preference and lets your site adapt automatically.

Query Values

Two values:

  • light — user prefers a light color scheme (or no preference)
  • dark — user prefers dark mode
@media (prefers-color-scheme: dark) {
  body { background: #111; color: #eee; }
}

All lessons in this course

  1. prefers-color-scheme Media Query
  2. CSS Variables for Theming
  3. color-scheme Property
  4. Automatic and Manual Dark Mode Toggle
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